Icelandic Sheepdog vs Russian Toy
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Russian Toy: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Russian Toy: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Russian Toy: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Russian Toy3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Russian Toy3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Russian Toy3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Icelandic Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cataracts: Vision impairment
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Distichiasis: Abnormal eyelash growth
Cryptorchidism: Retained testicles
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
Russian Toy
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Dental Issues: Tooth decay and loss
Eye Problems: Progressive vision loss
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Bone Fractures: Due to fragile frame
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Pros & Cons Comparison
Icelandic Sheepdog
Pros
Highly trainable
Good with families
Weather resistant coat
Excellent herding instincts
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Strong herding drive
Russian Toy
Pros
Compact size
Minimal grooming needs
Affectionate nature
Good for apartments
Cons
Fragile build
Can be yappy
Not ideal with young children
Temperature sensitive
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Russian Toy Fun Fact
Russian Toys are one of the smallest dog breeds, originally developed as both ratters and lap warmers!
Heritage & Purpose
Icelandic Sheepdog
Origin:
Dating back to the 9th century in Iceland, these dogs served as invaluable herding companions to Viking settlers, managing sheep across rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions.
Russian Toy
Origin:
Developed in Russia during the early 20th century as companion dogs for aristocracy, these tiny terriers served as ratters and fashionable lapdogs in urban households.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Russian Toy
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to delicate build, and regular dental care. Early socialization helps prevent excessive timidity.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
InfrequentRelated Comparisons
Same Group
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Welsh Terrier →